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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Jim Newberger (R)

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Special Session Update and Merry Christmas

Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Dear Friends,
As we quickly approach the end of the year, I’d like to give you an update on special session negotiations, regarding both MNsure relief, as well as the tax and bonding bills.
Special Session
Since the end of the regular legislative session in May, Governor Dayton has persistently shown himself to be irrational and erratic. There is very little consistency in what he agrees to from one sit-down negotiation to the next.
Earlier this month, he sent a letter to House leadership demanding bonding dollars for a new list of pet projects that had not been on the table in previous meetings. He has said again and again over the past several months that he will not pass a tax bill without a bonding bill, yet the Governor consistently changes his mind as to what should be included in that bonding bill.
Regarding MNsure negotiations, Friday, December 16th was the "hard deadline" set by Governor Dayton for legislative leaders and himself to come to an agreement for a special session to be possible in December.
Unsurprisingly, no agreement was reached, and the Governor has no plans to call a special session. Here is video of a press conference by Speaker Kurt Daudt that summarizes what the situation was in negotiations with the Governor: https://youtu.be/43yBLMfOyy4?t=2s
In the coming session, House leadership and myself plan on prioritizing MNsure reform to get families across Minnesota a lasting solution to skyrocketing insurance costs.
Merry Christmas!
On a happier note, Christmas is nearly here! I hope you are able to spend some quality time with your family and friends this year, and make many happy memories.
I am continually reminded during the holiday season of what an honor it is to represent our community in Saint Paul. Thank you for your support and encouragement over the years. I could not be more proud to serve our district at the Capitol, and I look forward to another two years.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me with your questions or concerns; my door is always open. I can be reached by email at Rep.Jim.Newberger@house.mn, or by phone at (651)296-2451.
Again, have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
 
Sincerely,
 
 
Jim